Sappanwood

Biancaea sappan

infusion

Red wood chips boiled into a pink, hot, spiced drink: Java's wedang secang.

Origin

India and Southeast Asia

Season (United States)

all year round

Preparation

A handful of shavings is boiled for ten to fifteen minutes in water, with ginger and spices, until it turns red; it is strained and drunk hot. The wood is not eaten.

Did you know?

In Kerala, drinking water is boiled with a few chips: it comes out pink (pathimugam).